playbill vip

While I sit in front of my computer screen and think about the note I want to express as the Director of this musical, I travel back in time to five months ago, from the onset of this musical production. I can still clearly visualize the whole rehearsal process as it unfolded before me. As I sit here now and reflect, tears come to my eyes. I still get goosebumps as I recall the pre-auditions and the talent I witnessed - surely, something out of the ordinary! I immediately knew that working with the PS 70Q students and staff was going to be an unforgettable experience for me. 

When I think of the words - and there are many - that describe the process of directing this musical, the two words that come to mind are gratitude and satisfaction. From the very beginning, the involvement of the actors and actresses was evident. They were committed, responsible, and adventurous. All performers wanted to understand the meaning of the play “Shrek” and they did. Throughout our rehearsals, they worked hard to capture the essence of the original characters while infusing their own creativity and passion into each moment. "It doesn't matter what people say about you, what matters is what you believe you are". Friendship, companionship, courage, and loyalty are some of the words that are part of the work, and therefore, a part of us too now! 

"Shrek" took us out of the traditional fairy tale story where the charming prince falls in love with the beautiful princess. It brought us down to earth to teach us that the beauty of people is inside, that emotions have to be expressed, and that every being has the right to be heard. This is how love happened between Shrek and Princess Fiona, when they were both really honest with their feelings and did not pretend to show themselves as they are not. That is how true love happens. The inseparable friendship of Donkey and the courage of the Fairy Tale Creatures are an example of overcoming our daily challenges. They show us that with faith and companionship everything is possible. No matter how difficult the moment is, we must always keep fighting for our rights.

I am infinitely grateful for the work of the students, who will undoubtedly shine as the bright stars they are. I have watched them all grow on stage and as a Director, there is nothing more gratifying than that. I am very proud of all of them!

I want to thank Principal Thomas, Assistant Principal Matsikas, and the entire PS 70Q Community for believing in Theater and Dance, and for providing endless possibilities to the students. To PS 70 Q’s Production TEAM - Ms. Cooledge Fazio, Ms. Lees, Ms. Palagian, Mr. Peccarelli, Ms. Ramirez, and Mr. Tanner - thank you wholeheartedly for all of your hard work, involvement, and support. To Ms. Jay and the New Beginnings Performing Arts Studio Crew, thank you for believing in me and my work, and for recommending me to direct this show. There would be no show without your help. To Mr. Bediako, thank you for being by my side and for giving shape and rhythm to the musical. To the entire PS 70Q Community, thank you for your continued support and for believing in us! 

And now, without further ado, we welcome you to our Shrek JR. universe.

Enjoy the show and have a good trip! 

Sincerely, 

Iñigo Martin Ciriza

Theater Director